Google is investing approximately $75 million in independent film studio A24 as part of a new artificial intelligence research partnership aimed at developing AI tools for filmmaking and distribution, the companies announced on Monday.
The investment, which is tied to the collaboration rather than a capital raise, marks the first time Google has taken a stake in a movie studio. The project will be led by Google’s DeepMind AI division.
Under the partnership, A24 and DeepMind will work together to develop new workflows, tools and techniques designed to support filmmakers throughout the production and distribution process.
“We believe the best way to develop tools that empower artists is to work directly with them,” said Demis Hassabis, co-founder and CEO of Google DeepMind. “By collaborating with filmmakers and industry leaders like A24 from the beginning, we can build new AI features to support artists in authentic, meaningful storytelling that helps enable their creative vision.”
DeepMind Vice President of Product Eli Collins added: “We believe breakthroughs happen when you get technology into the hands of the best minds in the field.”